Australia's Both takes early lead in Asian Tour opener

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BANGKOK -- Australia's Marcus Both set the early pace at the season-opening Asian Tour International when he shot an eight-under 63 to take the first-round lead at the Suwan Golf and Country Club on Thursday.

Japan's Tetsuji Hiratsuka, who had earlier taken the morning lead, is a single shot back in second place with a 64, while Singapore-based Australian Unho Park and India's Rahil Gangjee are tied for third after posting matching 65s.

Both, 29, recorded a birdie on the par-three 12th but quickly gave that shot back with a bogey on 13th. But after making the turn at one-under, Both's game came to life starting with an eagle three at the 550-yard par five second hole.

He continued to reel in three consecutive birdies starting from the third to fifth holes before closing with another two birdies on the eighth and ninth.

"It's a nice start especially for the first round of the year. I didn't really hole much putts in the front-nine, but I just kept doing what I should be doing in my back-nine, kept it nice, holed a few putts and there we have it," Both said.

Hiratsuka, who has four victories on the Japan Golf Tour, began his title charge at the $300,000 full-field Asian Tour event with a flawless display of golf when he fired five birdies and an eagle two at the 439-yard par four, 16th.

The 37-year-old was simply at the top of his game despite the hot and humid conditions at the Suwan Golf and Country Club.

"It was really hot out there today, but I'm happy to be playing well at the moment. My swing and putting were all working and if I can maintain this form, I'll stand a good chance of winning," Hiratsuka said.